The 5 Best Ozzy Osbourne Live Performances of all Time
Ozzy Osbourne has delivered countless memorable live performances throughout his career, both with Black Sabbath and as a solo artist. Some of the most highly regarded live shows include his early solo work with Randy Rhoads, particularly the “Tribute” album recordings, and his most recent, “Live at Budokan” show. Black Sabbath performances like the debut of “War Pigs” at the Olympia Theater in Paris and the final “Back to the Beginning” concert also stand out as iconic moments. Below is a breakdown of some of his best live performances:
“Speak of the Devil” (1982):
This live album captures Ozzy’s performances shortly after the tragic death of Randy Rhoads. It features an all-Black Sabbath setlist with Jake E Lee on guitar. The band’s performance especially considering the circumstances is powerful. The album was released on November 22, 1982, by Jet Records. The album was called Talk of the Devil in the UK, because it was the commonly more expressed idiom there.
“Tribute” (1987) & Early Randy Rhoads Era:
This live album, recorded during the Blizzard of Ozz and Diary of a Madman tours with Randy Rhoads, is considered by many to be among his finest live performances. The raw energy and musicality of these shows, particularly the solos by Rhoads, are legendary. The album was released five years after Rhoads’s tragic death in a plane crash and aims to highlight his talent and influence.
“Live and Loud” (1993):
This high-energy performance features a mix of classic Ozzy Osbourne tracks and songs from his then-current album, “No More Tears”, with guitarist Zakk Wylde delivering blistering solos. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_songs_recorded_by_Nirvana The album was released on June 7, 1993, and at this time was to be the final album of Ozzy Osbourne following his final album before retiring.
“Live at Budokan” (2002):
This Ozzy Osbourne performance, captured during the height of Osbournes” TV show, showcases Ozzy’s enduring appeal and ability to connect with a large audience. Cheap Trick at Budokan is the first live album by American rock band Cheap Trick, and their best-selling recording. Recorded at the Nippon Budokan in Tokyo. The album was released in the US in February 1979, though Epic Records.
“The Ultimate Ozzy” (1986):
This live album captures Ozzy Osbourne at the peak of his solo career, with a setlist that includes hits like “Crazy Train,” Mr. Crowley,” and “Bark at the moon” The Ultimate Ozzy is a video album by Ozzy Osbourne. It was recorded in Kansas City at the Kemper Arena during The Ultimate Sin Tour.
This is just a handful of the best live performances of Ozzy Osbourne, even though there are countless memorable performances. RIP Ozzy!
